What to Do in Oakland - The Counter | Trade Coffee

City Guide: What to Do in Oakland

It's a community thing.

by Maria Fernandez | February 29, 2024

If you're planning a trip to Oakland, California — whether IRL or in your mind — best turn to an expert. Maria Fernandez isn't just a five-year veteran of Red Bay Coffee, she's a certified Oakland native.

Located in the Bay area, just outside of San Francisco, downtown Oakland has a number of attractions that are unique to Northern California. From great happy hour spots and restaurant finds to standout coffee shops, this neighborhood has something for everyone to enjoy.

So, if you’re wondering what to do in Oakland, Maria shares her top spots to support small, local businesses and join in the vibe of this diverse community.

Red Bay Roastery

3098 East 10th Street
Oakland, California 94601
Open daily 8:00 am

Stop by the Fruitvale District roastery for curbside service, a full-service coffee bar, coffee garden, curated food, snacks, condiments, branded tees, sweatshirts, totes, mugs, and more.

Ale Industries

3096 East 10th Street
Oakland, California 94601
Open daily 12:00 pm

Right next door to Red Bay Coffee, this chill taproom inside a warehouse-like brewery offers up a variety of house beers plus growlers to go. When you visit Ale Industries, try Fruitvale Grind, a collaboration with Red Bay and our delicious cold brew.

Lake Merritt

Lake Merritt is one of the most unique urban spaces in the US. With its three- mile shoreline, it is Oakland's heart and center and representative of an exceptionally diverse city. A special place in the East bay where nature and nurture migrates and mingles daily.

Grand Lake Farmers Market

Splash Pad Park
746 Grand Avenue
Oakland, California 94610
Open Saturday 9:00 am

On Saturdays, shop the best farmers market in the East Bay. Walking distance to many great spots in the Oakland neighborhood, this Farmers Market is a must. The Oakland Grand Lake market features over 40 local farmers, 30 specialty food purveyors, and a handful of local artisans selling, plus Red Bay Coffee - on-site, serving beautiful coffee to the people from our full-service mobile van.

Alkali Rye

3256 Grand Avenue
Oakland, California 94610
Open Tuesday to Sunday 11:00 am

Alkali Rye is a new, beautiful specialty beverage shop and tasting room in Oakland, offering an exciting selection of craft spirits, wines, beers, teas, and coffee in support of and featuring BIPOC producers.

Humphry Slocombe Ice Cream

2335 Broadway
Oakland, California 94612
Open Monday to Thursday 3:30 pm
Open Friday to Sunday 1:00 pm

With multiple locations in the San Francisco Bay Area, it's no secret why this spot is a favorite. Stop by for some delicious ice cream after enjoying dinner at a nearby restaurant.